Barbizon and Gorges d'Apremont Loop

This jogging loop is approximately 18.1 km long and is designed to be completed in about 7970 seconds, which is roughly 2 hours and 13 minutes. However, your actual time may vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop.

No, this specific loop is rated as 'difficult'. The Fontainebleau forest offers a range of trails, but this one involves significant elevation changes and varied terrain, making it more suitable for experienced joggers with good fitness.

The terrain on this loop is quite diverse and challenging. You can expect sandy paths, particularly around sandstone formations, as well as stony and rugged sections with eroded boulders and rock piles. While some parts might be smoother, many sections involve navigating natural geological formations. Suitable trail shoes are highly recommended.

Along this route, you'll encounter several notable spots. These include the unique rock formation known as Elephant Rock, the intriguing Grotte du Serment, and the scenic Mont Aigu. You'll also get a fantastic View of the Fontainebleau Forest from the Caverne des Brigands, and pass by the Cave Chalet.

The Fontainebleau forest has numerous parking areas. While the exact starting point for this specific loop isn't detailed, many trails are accessible from parking lots near popular areas like Franchard, Apremont, or the town of Fontainebleau itself. It's advisable to check a detailed map for the closest parking to your intended starting point.

The Fontainebleau forest is easily accessible from Paris. You can take a train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon station, which typically takes about 40 minutes. From there, local buses or a short walk can get you to various trailheads within the forest.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Forêt de Fontainebleau. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash, especially during certain seasons or in areas with wildlife, to protect both your pet and the local ecosystem. Always clean up after your dog.

The Fontainebleau forest is beautiful year-round, with the scenery changing with the seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, making them ideal. Summer can be warm, so an early morning or late afternoon jog is best. Winter jogging is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions on some trails.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and jog in the Forêt de Fontainebleau. It is a publicly accessible forest, recognized as one of the world's first nature reserves, and welcomes visitors freely.

Yes, this route intersects with several official trails. Notably, it covers significant portions of the Sentier Denecourt-Colinet 6 (48%) and the Liaison Fontainebleau-Barbizon (45%). You'll also find sections of the Sentier Robert Louis Stevenson (37%) and the Tour du Massif de Fontainebleau (26%) along the way.

Given the 'difficult' rating and varied terrain, you should bring appropriate trail running shoes with good grip. Also, carry enough water, especially on warmer days, as there might not be water sources directly on the trail. A small first-aid kit, a charged phone, and a map or GPS device are also recommended.

You can expect breathtaking and varied scenery. The loop takes you through extensive forests of oak and pine, past distinctive red sandstone cliffs, and unique eroded boulder formations. You'll also encounter panoramic viewpoints offering expansive vistas of the forest's unique rocky landscapes.